BBb Helicon – HB24

The Wessex BBb Helicon (HB24) offers a modern take on a historic brass instrument that played a key role in the development of the sousaphone. 

For players searching for a helicon for sale, this model provides an authentic playing experience with practical usability.

Designed to wrap comfortably around the body, the helicon allows players to perform while standing or moving, making it particularly suited to outdoor and marching settings.

The helicon predates the sousaphone and was widely used in military and marching bands throughout Europe, where it’ts design allowed musicians to project sound effectively while remaining mobile, a feature that later influenced the development of the modern marching tuba.

Today, the helicon continues to be valued by musicians interested in historical brass performance and traditional band formats.

The wrap-around design distributes weight across the body, making it more comfortable to carry than many traditional tubas in mobile settings; this makes the helicon particularly practical for parades, street performances and outdoor ensembles.

The forward-facing bell also helps direct sound outward, improving projection in open environments.

Tonally, the helicon shares similarities with the tuba but offers a slightly more direct and focused sound. It provides a strong bass foundation while maintaining clarity within an ensemble.

For players looking to explore historical brass instruments or seeking a practical alternative for mobile performance, the Wessex BBb Helicon is both a functional and characterful choice.

Specifications

• Bore: 18.5mm (0.728")
• Bell: 508mm (20")
• Weight of helicon: 11.7kg (25lb 12oz)
• 3 Valve version: 10.7Kg. (23lb 6oz)

Special Features

1. Stainless steel valves with nylon guides for quiet reliable action
2. Perfectly balanced with valves in optimal position for comfort
3. Removable bell for easy transportation
4. Supplied with mouthpiece and ABS shell case
5. Manufactured from 0.9mm brass for strength and durability
6. Hardened bell for greater resonance
7. 1st slide made for easy adjustment while playing
8. Open wrap 4th valve loop (going around entire bow) for open low register
9. Long main tuning slide for extreme temperature variations playing

Fits in regular sousaphone gig bag